Biopolymer composition for agriculture

Abstract

Formulations comprising a homogeneous suspension of a biopolymer and seed coating compositions comprising a biopolymer for use in the agricultural field are described. In embodiments, the biopolymer is selected from the group consisting of chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, fibroin, keratin, wool, alginic acid, and mixtures thereof. In embodiments, the biopolymer is stably dispersed in the polar solvent. The formulations may have specific uses, such as seed coating agents, seed soaking agents, seed pellets, granular additives (fertilizers), powder additives (fertilizers), root drops, foliar sprays, and other agricultural applications.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to provisional patent application US 63 / 356,679 (filed on June 29, 2022), the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of agriculture, more specifically to novel formulations comprising a uniform biopolymer suspension for use as seed coatings, seed soaks, seed pellets, granular additives (fertilizers), powder additives (fertilizers), root drops, foliar sprays and other agricultural applications. Background Art

[0004] With climate change and a growing global population, agriculture is under tremendous pressure now more than ever to feed the planet. As a result, the agricultural industry is constantly looking for ways to increase production and yields, especially in increasingly warmer and drier conditions. Pest control is also a major issue.

[0005] Seed coating is the application of exogenous materials to the surface of seeds for the purpose of improving seed appearance and handling characteristics (e.g., seed weight and size) and / or delivering active compounds that can protect seeds (e.g., plant growth regulators, micronutrients, and microbial inoculants). For example, patent publication US2011 / 0039694 describes coating seeds with a composition to promote the binding of biologically active ingredients such as insecticides or fungicides to seeds, the composition comprising a binder, a wax, one or more stabilizers, and an optional colorant.

[0006] Natural polymers or biopolymers are abundant, natural and renewable polymers. However, the most abundant biopolymers such as cellulose and chitin are insoluble, which limits and complicates their use. Advantageously, the applicant describes new uniform and stable biopolymer suspensions in WO 2022 / 137184. The inventors have now found that such biopolymer suspensions have many applications in agriculture.

[0007] Therefore, there remains a need for compositions comprising biopolymers for use in agricultural applications such as seed coating.

[0008] In particular, there is a need for seed coating compositions that can provide benefits such as: improving germination rates, increasing water absorption or water uptake by seeds, reducing water loss from seeds, and allowing germination under dry and / or reduced humidity conditions.

[0009] Furthermore, there remains a need for compositions and methods for delivering biologically active ingredients, such as insecticides, fungicides, bacterial inoculants, and the like, to seeds and other parts of plants.

[0010] The present invention addresses these needs and other needs, which will become apparent from a review of the following disclosure and description of the features of the invention. Summary of the invention

[0011] According to one aspect, the present invention is directed to a biopolymer-containing seed coating composition comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable homogeneous aqueous suspension.

[0012] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a seed coated with a seed coating composition as defined herein.

[0013] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a seed coating composition as defined herein for providing at least one of the following benefits compared to uncoated seeds: improving germination rate, increasing water absorption or water absorption of seeds, reducing water loss from seeds, increasing seedling emergence, allowing germination under conditions of reduced humidity, increasing the number of nodules, increasing nitrogen concentration and / or the total amount of nitrogen fixed.

[0014] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for seed coating, which comprises applying to the seeds a seed coating composition as defined herein.

[0015] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for improving seed germination during planting, which comprises coating the seeds with a seed coating composition as defined herein.

[0016] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for improving plant emergence, which comprises coating seeds to be planted with a coating composition as defined herein.

[0017] According to another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of coating seeds with a biologically active ingredient, the method comprising applying to the seeds a seed coating composition comprising at least one biologically active ingredient stably dispersed in a biopolymer composition.

[0018] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a composition for use in agriculture, comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable homogeneous aqueous suspension (e.g., a stable homogeneous aqueous suspension comprising insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent).

[0019] Other aspects, advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading the following non-limiting description of preferred embodiments, which are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] In order that the invention may be readily understood, embodiments of the invention are shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings.

[0021] Figure 1 is a line graph showing the water loss of coated and uncoated seeds at 35% relative humidity (RH) according to Example 1.

[0022] Figure 2 is a stacked bar graph showing moisture according to Example 2, which shows that chitosan soybean coating promotes seedling emergence under water stress conditions.

[0023] Figure 3 is a set of photographs according to Example 2, which show that chitosan soybean seed coating promotes root hair growth.

[0024] Further details of the present invention and its advantages will become apparent from the detailed description included below. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] In the following description of the embodiments, examples in which the present invention can be practiced are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that other embodiments may be formed without departing from the scope of the disclosed invention. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0026] General Overview

[0027] In PCT publication WO 2022 / 137184, entitled “HOMOGENEOUSBIOPOLYMER SUSPENSIONS, PROCESSES FOR MAKING SAME AND USES THEREOF” (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety), applicants describe the preparation of stable homogeneous suspensions of insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymers.

[0028] The present invention generally relates to the use of biopolymers in the manufacture of compositions for use in the agricultural industry (referred to herein as "agricultural compositions"). Particular aspects relate to seed coating, seed soaking and / or seed pelleting formulations / compositions and methods of use thereof. Other aspects relate to the use of biopolymers for other parts of plants, such as for foliar spraying or application to the roots. Other aspects relate to the use of biopolymers in the manufacture of granular or powder additives (e.g., fertilizers), root drops, etc. The present invention includes the general biopolymer compositions and specific biopolymer compositions described in WO 2022 / 137184, but is not limited thereto.

[0029] Biopolymers

[0030] Agricultural compositions according to the present invention require biopolymers minimally. As used herein, the term "biopolymer" refers to a natural polymer produced by the cells of a living organism. Biopolymers are composed of monomeric units that are covalently bonded to form larger molecules. The present invention includes polypeptides, polysaccharides and polynucleotide biopolymers. Other examples of biopolymers include natural rubber (polymers of isoprene), suberin and lignin (composite polyphenol polymers), cutin and horn carbon (cutan) (composite polymers of long-chain fatty acids) and melanin. In embodiments, the biopolymers used as starting materials and obtained in a suspension mode are substantially pure, i.e., they are only composed of purified natural polymers.

[0031] Preferably, the biopolymer used in the present agricultural application is substantially free of chemical residues, and any such chemical residues are absent or present in undetectable amounts or trace amounts. Preferably, the biopolymer is substantially free of chemical residues, and any such chemical residues are absent or present in undetectable amounts or trace amounts. As used herein, "substantially free of chemical residues" means such as acids, bases, reactive chemicals, organic and / or inorganic salts, surfactants, dispersants (such as Twin 80 TM ), silanizing agents, acrylamide, etc. are completely absent or only present in undetectable or trace amounts in the final composition or final suspension. In embodiments, the biopolymer may constitute at least 98 wt % or at least 99 wt % or at least 99.9 wt % or at least 99.99 wt % of the organic compounds in the biopolymer composition or suspension, i.e., the biopolymer composition or suspension may contain less than 2 wt % or less than 1 wt %, less than 0.1 wt % or less than 0.01 wt % or less than 0.001 wt % of organic components other than the biopolymer or degradation products.

[0032] According to the present invention, biopolymers can be insoluble in water or semi-soluble in water. As used herein, the term "insoluble biopolymer" refers to a biopolymer that is "insoluble" in a polar solvent (particularly water), and the term includes equivalent terms such as "water-insoluble", "water-insoluble", "water-insoluble" or "insoluble". Insolubility can usually be observed by separation, i.e., there are two separated phases in an aqueous mixture, such as the biopolymer depositing / precipitating at the bottom of the aqueous mixture or floating on the top of the aqueous mixture. According to the present invention, examples of insoluble biopolymers include chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, silk protein, keratin, wool, alginic acid and mixtures thereof, but are not limited thereto. As used herein, the term "semi-soluble biopolymer" refers to a biopolymer that can be dissolved in a polar solvent (e.g., water) only under certain conditions (e.g., molecular weight, heat, added chemicals (e.g., acid, alcohol, surfactant, etc.)). According to the present invention, examples of semi-soluble biopolymers include gelatin, pectin, starch, pullulan, agarose, hyaluronic acid, RNA, DNA, xanthan gum, latex, polymannan, suberin, keratin, horny carbon and mixtures thereof, but are not limited thereto.

[0033] In an embodiment, the insoluble biopolymer is selected from the group consisting of chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, silk protein, keratin, wool, and mixtures thereof. In an embodiment, the semi-soluble biopolymer is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, starch, pullulan, agarose, alginic acid, alginate, hyaluronic acid, RNA, DNA, xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, latex, polymannos, suberin, keratin, horny carbon, and mixtures thereof.

[0034] Biopolymers from various sources can be used, and the present invention is not limited to specific material sources. For example, suitable sources of chitin can include green plants, algae and fungi, but are not limited thereto. Suitable sources of chitin and chitosan can include fungi, crustaceans (such as crabs and shrimps) and insects, but are not limited thereto. In embodiments, insoluble or semi-soluble biopolymers are obtained from fungi and mushrooms. In embodiments, insoluble or semi-soluble biopolymers are obtained from plant materials, and the plant materials include roots, tubers, leaves, petals, seeds, fruits, etc., but are not limited thereto.

[0035] In an embodiment, the biopolymer is a 100% natural biopolymer, such as SunSpheres Bio TM (microcrystalline cellulose, Dow Chemical), Chemjac TM (konjac root extract and xanthan gum, Chemspire), Kelset TM(sodium alginate, Dupont), Instant Pure Flo F TM (Corn starch, Ingredion), Gelcarin TM GP 379 (carrageenan, Iota form, Dupont), Betafib TM MCF (cellulose (and) water-microfibrillated cellulose, Cosun Biobased Products), Betafib TM ETD (cellulose and cellulose gum-microfibrillated cellulose, Cosun Biobased Products), Exilva TM FM02-V,L (cellulose-microfibrillated cellulose, Borregard), Naturesoft TM 800 (cellulose-micro powder), Kelcogel TM CG-HA (Gelco-CP), agar, agarose, mushroom chitosan (e.g., GBS003, Qingdao Chibio Biotech), fungal chitosan (e.g., GBS010, Qingdao Chibio Biotech; or Kraeber & Co), chitosan derived from fungi (e.g., Kiosmetine-CS TM , Kitozyme).

[0036] In an embodiment, the biopolymer is a naturally derived biopolymer, such as Natrathix TM Biocellulose (cellulose gum, Ashland), Aquasorb TM A500 (cellulose gum, Ashland), Polysurf TM CS 67 / Natrosol TM CS plus 330 (cetyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, Ashland), Structure XL TM (hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, Nouryon), CD-58 (chitosan succinimide, Onlystar Bio-Technology Ltd), carboxymethyl chitosan derivative (GBS010, Qingdao Chibio Biotech), Makimousse TM 7 / 400 (sodium polyacrylate starch-kobo product, Daito Kasei Kogyo), Salanjul / Sanfresh TM1000 / 300sp (sodium polyacrylate starch, IwaseCosfa USA Inc. / Sanyo), Antaron ECoT ethylcellulose (ethylcellulose, Ashland).

[0037] In embodiments, the biopolymer comprises a synergistic biopolymer combination, such as Chemjac TM (konjac root extract and xanthan gum, Chemspire), PemuPur TM start (microcrystalline cellulose (and) Sphingomonas ferment extract (and) cellulose gum, Lubrizol), Nomcort CG (xanthan gum, carob gum, Ikeda).

[0038] Biopolymers can also include other biopolymer active substances, such as B-CAN TM 55% (oat beta glucan, Adams Food Ingredients) and / or beta glucan from mushrooms.

[0039] The present invention includes a mixture of two, three, four, five or more insoluble biopolymers, including chitin + chitosan, chitin + cellulose, chitin + collagen, chitin + silk, chitosan + silk, chitosan + cellulose, chitosan + collagen, cellulose + collagen, cellulose + silk, collagen + silk, etc., but not limited thereto. The present invention also includes a mixture of two, three, four, five or more semi-soluble biopolymers, including agarose + DNA, xanthan gum + starch, latex + alginate, xanthan gum + DNA, guar gum + horn carbon, etc., but not limited thereto. It is also conceivable to mix two, three, four, five or more insoluble biopolymers and semi-soluble biopolymers together, wherein the insoluble biopolymers and semi-soluble biopolymers include chitin + agarose, chitosan + agarose, chitosan + gelatin, chitosan + xanthan gum, chitosan + xanthan gum, chitosan + sodium hyaluronate, chitosan + sodium hyaluronate, cellulose + sodium hyaluronate, chitosan + agarose, chitosan + agarose, cellulose + agarose, but are not limited thereto.

[0040] The present invention also includes combinations of hydrophobically modified biopolymers and unmodified biopolymers that can form stable viscous oil-in-water emulsions when dispersed using high shear processes and / or mechanical energy (with or without emulsifiers). Examples of hydrophobically modified biopolymers include Natrosol TM CS Plus 330 / Polysurf TM CS 67 (cetyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, Ashland), StarDesign Ultra TM(Sodium starch octenylsuccinate, Cargill Beauty), Inutec TM SP1 (inulin dodecyl carbamate, Beneo), Texturlux Stabil TM (Hydrolyzed corn starch hydroxyethyl ether, Primient).

[0041] In embodiments, biopolymer is made up of biopolymer composition, and the biopolymer composition comprises biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into stable uniform aqueous biopolymer suspension. As used herein, the term "uniform" generally refers to the appearance of suspension under the naked eye (for example, uniform color, uniform texture, etc.). As used herein, uniformity does not exclude the possibility that suspension is "non-uniform" on the molecular level (for example, the presence of various particle sizes, aggregates, etc.). As used herein, the term "stable uniform aqueous biopolymer suspension" or similar terms used interchangeably herein such as "uniform biopolymer suspension" or "stable biopolymer suspension" or simply "biopolymer suspension" all refer to the suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles that have been stably dispersed in polar solvents. Polar solvents can be polar protic solvents or polar aprotic solvents. Polar solvents can be aqueous solvents. Insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles present in biopolymer suspensions can be shaped as similar to fibers and / or similar to agglomerated spheres or agglomerates. The stability of biopolymer suspensions can be assessed by any suitable method. In a preferred embodiment, stability is measured or observed by the absence of separation, i.e., there is a single phase in the aqueous mixture rather than two separate phases, e.g., no biopolymer sedimentation / precipitation at the bottom of the aqueous mixture or floating on the top of the aqueous mixture. Preferably, the biopolymer suspension according to the present invention is stable (e.g., without separation) for at least 1 day or at least 1 week or at least one month or at least one year or more.

[0042] Notwithstanding the above, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymers may never completely dissolve. Instead, they become "swellable" and bind water, which is why the biopolymers become viscous suspensions in accordance with the present invention when subjected to high shear conditions and / or mechanical energy. Thus, the present invention includes "swellable biopolymers" and "non-swellable biopolymers" because non-swellable polymers may be swellable using high shear and / or mechanical energy. As used herein, swellable biopolymers include biopolymers that absorb and bind water such that particle size and aqueous dispersion viscosity increases.

[0043] In embodiments, the biopolymer may be swollen by wet ball milling. This may include, but is not limited to, chitin, chitosan, hemicellulose, and pregelatinized corn starch.

[0044] In embodiments, the biopolymer may be swollen by a high shear process other than ball milling. This may include, but is not limited to, microcrystalline cellulose, microfibrillated cellulose, nanocellulose, hairy nanocellulose, konjac glucomannan, hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, high acyl gellan gum, gellan gum, carboxymethyl starch, carboxymethyl cellulose (low ds type), agar, and agarose.

[0045] According to the present invention, it is also contemplated to use soluble biopolymers including, but not limited to, xanthan gum, diutangum, sodium alginate, sclerotium gum.

[0046] In embodiments, biopolymer molecules or particles as part of the agricultural composition have been mechanically processed into a stable uniform aqueous biopolymer suspension. In embodiments, mechanical processing involves high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy. In embodiments, high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy are obtained by processes including mechanical shearing, shear thinning, planetary ball milling, rolling milling, vibratory ball milling, tumbling agitation ball milling, horizontal media grinding, colloid milling, but not limited thereto. As described below, high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy can be continued for a period of time under parameters, suitable conditions, etc. until a desired state change is obtained, such as a color change, a viscosity change, a change from a slurry to a paste, an ointment, a cream, a lotion, a gel or an emulsion, etc.

[0047] Without wishing to be bound by theory, subjecting the biopolymer to high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy can improve biopolymer properties that cannot be ensured using conventional methods, including improved rheological properties (e.g., viscosity), shear thinning properties, and high yield values. Biopolymers dispersed using a high shear process can contain a lamellar crystalline gel network (LGN), which can synergistically increase the viscosity of the biopolymer dispersion. The oil + water biopolymer dispersion according to the present invention can also contain a Pickering emulsion, wherein a water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsion is stabilized by a biopolymer.

[0048] In an embodiment, high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy require the use of suitable devices or equipment, including ball mills (e.g., planetary ball mills, rolling mills, vibrating ball mills, tumbling agitated ball mills, horizontal media mills, colloid mills, magnetic mills), twin screw extruders, high pressure homogenizers, blade homogenizers, stirring homogenizers, dispersers, rotor-stator homogenizers, high shear mixers, plowshare mixers, dynamic mixers, plowshare mixers, turbine mixers, speed mixers, friction mills, ultrasonic instruments (e.g., high shear ultrasonic processes), tissue tearers, cell lysers, homogenizers (polytrons), ribbon stirrers, microfluidizers, high pressure homogenizers, and combinations thereof, but are not limited thereto. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention uses ball milling under wet conditions. Specific examples of ball mills include vertical planetary mills (e.g., Tencan XQM-2A) with a 100 mL capacity zirconia jar and 10 mm diameter zirconia balls. TM ), Flacktek with 40mL zirconia canister and 5mm diameter zirconia ball or ring TM Speed ​​mixer (DAC 330-11SE), 1.5L Supermill Plus with 1.4 to 1.7 mm zirconium oxide beads TM and Netzsch mills Labstar with beads from 0.6 to 0.8 mm or beads from 1.4 to 1.7 mm TM , but not limited to this.

[0049] In a particular embodiment, the biopolymer compositions and suspensions according to the invention are obtained using a particular protocol referred to herein as the "10+1 Alt method". The method comprises grinding the biopolymer for a certain period of time (e.g. 10 minutes), followed by a short pause (e.g. 1 minute), and then grinding in the opposite direction for a certain period of time (e.g. 10 minutes), for a total of 1 hour or 2 hours or 3 hours or 5 hours, 10 hours or 12 hours.

[0050] Advantageously, the viscosity of the composition / suspension can be changed by changing the high shear conditions and / or mechanical energy to which the biopolymer is subjected. These conditions can be adjusted to obtain a stable uniform suspension (e.g., a stable colloidal uniform suspension) with a desired viscosity. Typically, providing more mechanical energy will increase shear and correspondingly reduce the viscosity of the final product. The biopolymer itself and / or the final agricultural-related composition can be formulated into a paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel or emulsion (e.g., a coating suspension of low, medium or high viscosity) with a desired viscosity.

[0051] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules or particles is a colloidally homogeneous biopolymer suspension. In embodiments, the colloidally homogeneous suspension comprises colloids ranging from about 1 nm to about 1 μm.

[0052] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules comprises a biopolymer fiber. In embodiments, the width of the fiber is from about 1 nm to about 5 μm, or from about 5 nm to about 5 μm, from about 7 nm to about 5 μm, or from about 10 nm to about 5 μm, or from about 20 nm to about 5 μm, or from about 25 nm to about 5 μm, or from about 30 nm to about 5 μm, or from about 35 nm to about 5 μm, or from about 35 nm to about 3 μm. In embodiments, the width of the fiber is at least 1 nm, or at least 5 nm, or at least 10 nm, or at least 20 nm, or at least 30 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm, or at least 75 nm, or at least 100 nm, or at least 250 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 750 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm, or at least 3 μm, or at least 4 μm, or at least 5 μm, or wider.

[0053] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules comprises biopolymer fibers having a length of about 1 nm to about 200 μm, about 10 nm to about 100 μm, or about 50 nm to about 10 μm, or about 100 nm to about 10 μm, or about 500 nm to about 10 μm, or about 750 nm to about 10 μm, or about 800 nm to about 10 μm, or about 900 nm to about 5 μm, or about 1 μm to about 10 μm, or about 1 μm to about 5 μm, or about 1 μm to about 3 μm. In embodiments, the length of the fiber is at least 1 nm or at least 10 nm, at least 50 nm or at least 100 nm or at least 250 nm or at least 500 nm or at least 750 nm or at least 800 nm or at least 900 nm or at least 1 μm or at least 2 μm or at least 3 μm or at least 4 μm or at least 5 μm or at least 6 μm or at least 7 μm or at least 8 μm or at least 9 μm or at least 10 μm or at least 25 μm or at least 50 μm or at least 75 μm or at least 100 μm or at least 150 μm or at least 200 μm or longer. In embodiments, the dry particle size may range from about 1 nm to about 1 μm or up to 10 μm, and the wet particle size may range from about 200 nm to about 20 μm or up to 200 μm.

[0054] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules comprises a biopolymer fiber having: (i) a width greater than 20 nm (e.g., at least 25 nm or at least 40 nm or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 50 nm (e.g., at least 100 nm or at least 500 nm or at least 1 μm or at least 2 μm); or (ii) a width greater than 32 nm (e.g., at least 35 nm or at least 40 nm or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 50 nm (e.g., at least 100 nm or at least 500 nm) or (iii) a width greater than 20 nm (e.g., at least 25 nm, at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 500 nm (e.g., at least 600 nm, or at least 750 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm); or (iv) a width greater than 30 nm (e.g., at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 800 nm (e.g., at least 900 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm); or (v) a width greater than 8 nm (e.g., at least 10 nm, or at least 20 nm); or (vi) a width of greater than 11 nm (e.g., at least 15 nm, at least 25 nm, or at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length of greater than 166 nm (e.g., at least 200 nm, or at least 350 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 750 nm, or at least 900 nm) or at least 1 μm or at least 2 μm; or (vii) a width of greater than 11 nm (e.g., at least 15 nm, or at least 25 nm, or at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length of greater than 166 nm (e.g., at least 200 nm, or at least 350 nm, or at least 500 nm, or at least 750 nm, or at least 900 nm) or at least 1 μm or at least 2 μm. or (viii) a width greater than 32 nm (e.g., at least 35 nm, or at least 40 nm, or at least 50 nm) and a length greater than 800 nm (e.g., at least 900 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm, or at least 3 μm, or at least 4 μm, or at least 5 μm, or at least 6 μm, or at least 7 μm, or at least 8 μm, or at least 9 μm, or at least 10 μm, or at least 25 μm, or at least 50 μm, or at least 75 μm, or at least 100 μm, or at least 150 μm, or at least 200 μm, or longer).

[0055] In an embodiment, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules comprises biopolymer fibers, wherein the average width and average length of the fibers in the composition are as defined above, e.g., the average width is greater than 20 nm (e.g., at least 25 nm or at least 40 nm or at least 50 nm) and the average length is greater than 50 nm (e.g., at least 60 nm, at least 75 nm, or at least 100 nm, or at least 500 nm, at least 750 nm, or at least 1 μm, or at least 2 μm, or at least 3 μm, or at least 4 μm, or at least 5 μm, or at least 6 μm, or at least 7 μm, or at least 8 μm, or at least 9 μm, or at least 10 μm, or at least 25 μm, or at least 50 μm, or at least 75 μm, or at least 100 μm, or at least 150 μm, or at least 200 μm, or more).

[0056] In embodiments, the biopolymer suspension and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules has a pH between about 6.5 and about 8.5. In specific embodiments, the biopolymer suspension is a chitosan suspension having a pH between about 7.8 and about 8.1.

[0057] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules comprises biopolymer fibers having both crystalline regions and amorphous regions. In embodiments, the stable homogeneous suspension comprises biopolymer fibers having a spherical shape. In embodiments, the stable homogeneous suspension consists primarily of or consists solely of suspended biopolymer nanofibrils.

[0058] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that particle size measurements will vary depending on the measurement method and the state of the particles (e.g., particles in a wet state are generally larger than the same particles in a dry state). Typically, particles are in a wet or suspended state when measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS), and particles are in a dry state when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0059] In embodiments, biopolymers and / or biopolymer compositions comprising biopolymer molecules comprise agglomerated spheres of alginic acid having an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In embodiments, stable homogeneous suspensions comprise agglomerated spheres of alginic acid having a median size of about 30 nm to about 70 nm or about 35 nm to about 65 nm and an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0060] In an embodiment, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising the biopolymer molecules comprises agglomerated spheres of cellulose having an average size of about 50 nm to about 80 nm or about 55 nm to about 75 nm and an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In an embodiment, the stable homogenous biopolymer suspension comprises agglomerated spheres of cellulose having a median size of about 35 nm to about 75 nm or about 40 nm to about 65 nm and an average size of about 40 nm to about 80 nm or about 45 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0061] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules comprises agglomerated spheres of chitosan having an average size of about 45 nm to about 85 nm or about 50 nm to about 80 nm. In embodiments, the stable homogenous biopolymer suspension comprises agglomerated spheres of cellulose having a median size of about 45 nm to about 80 nm or about 50 nm to about 75 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0062] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising the biopolymer molecules comprises agglomerated spheres of chitosan having an average size of about 75 nm to about 120 nm, or about 80 nm to about 115 nm, or about 85 nm to about 110 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In embodiments, the stable homogeneous suspension comprises agglomerated spheres of chitosan having a median size of about 70 nm to about 100 nm, or about 75 nm to about 95 nm when measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

[0063] In an embodiment, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising the biopolymer molecules comprises agglomerated spheres of silk having an average size of about 40 nm to about 165 nm or about 45 nm to about 160 nm when measured by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). In an embodiment, the stable homogenous biopolymer suspension comprises agglomerated spheres of silk having a median size of about 40 nm to about 150 nm or about 45 nm to about 140 nm when measured by a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

[0064] In an embodiment, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules comprises particles of one or more of alginate, cellulose, chitin, chitosan and silk, wherein the particle size range when measured by SEM is as defined in the tables and figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0065] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising the biopolymer molecules is characterized by those visual properties as shown by the SEM images shown in the figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0066] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules is characterized by a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum as shown in the figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0067] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising the biopolymer molecules is characterized by solid state nuclear magnetic resonance characterization (SSNMR) as shown in the Figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0068] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules is characterized by a power X-ray diffraction (PXRD) pattern as shown in the figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0069] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules is characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements as those described in WO 2022 / 137184.

[0070] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules is characterized by a transmission spectrum as shown in the Figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0071] In an embodiment, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising biopolymer molecules is characterized by a scanning suspension test as described in WO 2022 / 137184.

[0072] In embodiments, the biopolymer and / or biopolymer composition comprising the biopolymer molecules is characterized by rheological behavior as shown in the figures of WO 2022 / 137184.

[0073] Seed coating composition + composition for other parts of the plant

[0074] A particular aspect of the invention relates to seed coating formulations / compositions comprising multiple biopolymers and / or one biopolymer. Other aspects of the invention relate to formulations / compositions comprising biopolymers and / or biopolymer compositions as defined herein, which can be used and / or applied to other parts of plants (e.g. roots, tubers, leaves, petals, seeds, fruits, etc.). Generally, unless there is contradictory evidence, references hereinafter to "seed coating compositions" generally apply to compositions for general agricultural use, including formulations / compositions for use in other parts of plants.

[0075] In embodiments, the seed coating composition comprises biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable homogenous aqueous suspension. In embodiments, the stable homogenous aqueous suspension comprises insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles. In embodiments, the biopolymer constitutes a stable homogenous aqueous suspension comprising insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles. In embodiments, the insoluble and / or semi-soluble particles are stably dispersed in a polar solvent.

[0076] The seed coating composition may further comprise additional compounds or substances, including safeners, binders, waxes, stabilizers, wetting agents, colorants, etc., but are not limited thereto.

[0077] The seed coating composition may further comprise a bioactive agent, including fungicides, insecticides, bacteria, biological peptides, nitrogen fixers, low molecular weight biopolymers, oligomers, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0078] Examples of pesticides include imidacloprid, clothianidin, chlorpyrifos, organochlorine, organophosphate, organosulfur, carbamates, formamidines, dinitrophenols, organotins, pyrethroids, nicotinoids, spinosomal, pyrazoles, pyridazinones, quinazolines, botanicals, synergists / activators, antibiotics, fumigants, inorganics, biorational, benzoylureas, permethrin (pyrethroid), esfenvalerate (pyrethroid), Bacillus thuringiensis, thuringiensis)(BT—biologicals), Diazinon(organophosphate), Methomyl(carbamate), Malathion(organophosphate), Pyrethrin(botanical), Carbaryl(N-methylcarbamate), Endosulfan(organochlorine), Beta-cyfluthrin(pyrethroid), Carbaryl(carbamate), Chlorpyrifos(organophosphate), Cyfluthrin(pyrethroid), Dimethoate(organophosphate), Gama-cyhalothrin(pyrethroid), Idoxacard TM (Carboxylate), Methomyl TM (Carbamate), Methyl Parathion TM (Organophosphate), Permethrin TM (pyrethroids), Phosmet TM (Organophosphate), Spinosad TM(fermentation product), Zeta-cypermethrin (pyrethroid), Beta-cyfluthrin (pyrethroid), Carbaryl (carbamate), Chlorpyrifos (organophosphate), Deltamethrin (pyrethroid), Dimethoate (organophosphate), Cypermethrin (pyrethroid), Gama- and Lambda-cyhalothrin (pyrethroid), Malathion (organophosphate), Methidathion (organophosphate), Methomyl (cyclodine), Sevin TM (Carbaryl), Imidan TM (phosmet), Kelthane TM (dicofol), Guthion TM (azinphos methyl), Vendex TM (hexakisfenbutatin-oxide), Lanate TM (methomyl), Methoxychlor (methoxychlor), Provado TM (Imidacloprid), Thiodan TM (endosulfan), Malathion TM 、Neemix TM , Pyrethrins TM 、Cygon 400 TM (dimethoate), Cythion TM 57% (Marathon), Diazinon TM AG500 (organophosphate), Dibrom TM 8E, Dipel TM 2X, Imidan TM 50WP, Lannate L TM , Lorsban TM 15G, Metasystox-R TM 、Parathion TM 4E, Thiodan TM 3E, Zolone TM3EC, Acramite TM (bifenazate), Baythroid TM (Cyfluthrin), Dimilin TM (diflubenzuron), Fulfill TM (pymetrozine), MSR TM (oxydemeton-methyl), Temik TM (aldicarb), Venom TM (dinotefuran), Zeal TM (etoxazole), Asana TM XL (esfenvalerate), Baythroi TM d 2 (cyfluthrin), Cruiser TM 5FS (thiamethoxam), Dimethoate TM 4E (organophosphate), Gaucho TM 480 (Imidacloprid), Lorsban TM 4E (chlorpyrifos), Mustang TM Max (pyrethroids), Nufos TM 4E (Chlorpyrifos), Warrior TM (Organophosphates), but not limited thereto.

[0079] Examples of fungicides include Syngenta's Vibrance TM Maxx RFC, (Streptomyces lydicus WYEC), Actinovate TM AG (Streptomyces lydicus), Agclor TM 310 (sodium hypochlorite), Affirm TM WDG (polyoxin-D), Agri-Fos TM (Phosphoric acid), Agri-mycin TM 17 (streptomycin sulfate), Aliette TM WDG (fosetyl Al), Alude TM (phosphorous acid), Apron TMXL (mefenoxam), Aprovia TM Top (benzovindiflupyr + difenoconazole), Ariston TM (chlorothalonil + cymoxanil), SC (copper oxychloride + copper hydroxide), Basic (Basic copper sulfate), Bio-Save (Pseudomonas syringae ESC-10), (Trichoderma aperellum, T. gamsii), Blocker TM 4F(PCNB), (Ulocladium oudemansii U3 strain), Bumper TM (propiconazole), Bravo TM (WeatherStik, Ultrex, ZN) (chlorothalonil), Cabrio TM EG (pyraclostrobin), Cabrio TM Plus (pyraclostrobin + metiram), Camelot (Copper Soap), Cannonball TM WG (fludioxonil), Catamaran TM (potassium phosphite + chlorothalonil), (Bacillus subtilis QST 713), Champ (Copper hydroxide), Champ TM Dry Prill (copper hydroxide), Champ TM Formula 2 Flowable (copper hydroxide), ChampION++ TM (Copper hydroxide), (Liquid, WP) (Bacillus subtilis strain GB03), Contans (Coniothyrium minitans), Cuprofix TMUltra 40 Disperss (basic copper sulfate), Cuproxat TM Cuproxat (basic copper sulfate), Curzate 60 DF (cymoxanil), Custodia (azoxystrobin + tebuconazole), DiTera (Myrothecium verrucaria strain AARC-0255), Dithane TM (M-45, F-45 Rainshield TM )(mancozeb), Decree 80 WDG(fenhexamid), Double 55 and LC (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens), Dynasty TM (Myclobutanil), Echo TM (90DF, 720)(chlorothalonil), (Extract of Swinglea glutinosa), Emblem TM (fludioxonil), Endura TM (boscalid), Equus TM 720SST (chlorothalonil), Flint TM (trifloxystrobin), Fontelis TM (penthiopyrad), Forum TM (dimethomorph), Fosphite TM (Phosphoric acid), Gavel TM (75 DS, DF)(zoxamide + maneb), GEM 500 SC TM (trifloxystrobin), Headline TM 、Headline SC TM (pyraclostrobin), Headline AMP TM (pyraclostrobin + metconazole), Incognito TM (4.5F, 85 WDG)(thiophanate-methyl), Initiate TM(720, ZN)(chlorothalonil), Inspire Super TM (fenfoconazole + cyprodinil), Iprodione 4L AG (Iprodione), JMS JMSStylet-Oil TM (Paraffin oil), (Potassium bicarbonate), (Copper hydroxide), Kentan TM DF (copper hydroxide), K-Phite TM 7LP (phosphoric acid), Kocide TM 2000, Kocide Kocide TM 3000, Kocide TM (Copper hydroxide), Kumulus (Sulfur), Luna Experience TM (fluopyram + tebuconazole), Luna Sensation TM (fluopyram + trifloxystrobin), Luna Tranquility TM (fluopyram + pyrimethanil), ManKocide TM (Copper + Maneb), Manzate TM (Max, Pro-Stick)(Maneb), MasterCop TM (Copper sulfate pentahydrate), Maxim TM 4FS (fludioxonil), Maxim TM MZ (fludioxonil + maneb), Maxim TM PSP (fludioxonil), Merivon TM (fluaxapoxad+pyraclostrobin), Mertect TM 340-F (thiabendazole), Micora TM (mandipropamid), Microthiol (Sulfur), Microfine TM Sulfur, Micro (Sulfur), Mildew (cottonseed oil, corn oil and garlic oil), (Potassium bicarbonate), (Insecticide Soap), Moncoat TMMZ (flutolanil + maneb), Moncut TM 70 DF (Fluoramide), Mural TM (Azoxystrobin & Benzotriazole), (Streptomyces griseoviridis K61), Nevado TM (Iprodione), Nordox TM 75 (Copper Oxide), Nu-Cop TM (3L, )(Copper hydroxide), Nutrol TM (Potassium dihydrogen phosphate), Nufarm TM T-Methyl 70WSB,4.5F (Methylthiophanate), (Trichoderma aperellum, T. gamsii), Omega TM 500 (fluazinam), Omega TM Top MP (fluazinam), (Sesame Oil), Orius TM (3.6F)(Tebuconazole), Orondis Opti TM (chlorothalonil + oxathiapiprolin), Orondis Opti B TM (chlorothalonil), Orondis TM (Ultra A, Gold 200, Opti A) (fluthiazolin), Orondis Ultra TM (fluthiazolin + mandelin), Orondis Ultra B TM (dimethoxam), OSO TM 5% SC (polyoxin D), OxiDate (hydrogen peroxide + peracetic acid), OxiPhos TM (phosphoric acid + hydrogen peroxide), Pageant Intrinsic TM (pyraclostrobin + boscalid), Penncozeb TM (75DF, 80WP)(Maneb), PhD TM (polyoxin D), Phyton TM 35 (Copper Sulfate), Phostrol TM (Phosphoric acid), Polyram TM80DF (metiram), Potato Seed Treater TM 6% (Maneb), (Streptomyces griseoviridis K61), Presidio TM 4SC (fluopicolide), (Gliocladium catenulatum J1446), Previcur Flex TM (propamocarb), Priaxor TM (fluxapyroxad + pyraclostrobin), Pristine TM (boscalid + pyraclostrobin), (Gliocladium catenulatum J1446), Procure TM (triflumizole), Proline TM 480SC (prothioconazole), ProPhyte TM (Phosphoric acid), PropiMax TM EC (propiconazole), Quadris TM (azoxystrobin), Quadris Opti TM (Azoxystrobin + Thiophanate-methyl), Quadris Ridomil Gold TM (Azoxystrobin + Metalaxyl-M), Quadris Top TM (azoxystrobin + difenaconazole), Quash TM (metraconazole), Quilt TM (azoxystrobin + propiconazole), Quilt Xcel TM (azoxystrobin + propiconazole), Quintec TM (quinoxyfen), Rally TM 40 SWP (myclobutanil), Rampart TM (Phosphoric acid), Ranman TM (cyazofamid), Reason TM 500SC (femadione), (Extract of Reynoutria sachalinensis), Reville TM (Phosphoric acid), Resist TM (Phosphoric acid), Revus TM (dimethoxam), Revus Top TM (dimethomorph + difenoconazole), Rhyme TM (flutriafol), Ridomil Gold TM (4SL, GR)(Metalaxyl), Ridomil Gold Bravo SC TM (Metalaxyl+Chlorothalonil), Ridomil Gold MZ72 TM (Metalaxyl+Maneb), Ridomil Gold Copper TM (Metalfrost+Copper), RootShield TM AG, (Trichoderma harzianum Rifai strain KRL-AG2), RootShield (Trichoderma harzianum strain T-22), RootShield Plus WP TM , (Trichoderma harzianum strain T-22 + Trichoderma virens strain G-41), Roper (DF TM ,DFRainshield TM )(Maneb), Rovral TM 4F (Iprodione), Scala TM SC (pyrimethanil), Serenade TM (Bacillus subtilis QST 713), (Potassium silicate), (Bacillus pumilus QST 2808), Sovran 50 WG TM (kresoxim-methyl), Spirato TM (fludioxonil), Sporan TM EC (rosemary oil, clove oil and thyme oil), (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727), Stratego TM StrategoYLD TM (Propiconazole + Trifloxystrobin), Subdue MAXX TM (Metalfrost), (Petroleum), Sulfur 6L TM (Sulfur), Super Tin TM 80 WP (triphenyltin hydroxide), Switch TM 62.5WG (cyprodinil + fludioxonil), Taegro 2 TM (Bacillus subtilis var. amyloliquefaciens FZB24), Tanos 50 DF TM (famoxadone + cymoxanil), Terraclor TM 400(PCNB), Tilt TM (Propiconazole), Topguard TM (flutriafol), Topguard TM EQ (myclobutanil + flutriafol), Topsin TM (4.5FL, M 70WSB)(Methylthiophanate), Torino TM (cyflufenamid), Triathlon TM BA (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D747), (neem oil), Trionic TM 4SC (triflumazole), Trivapro TM (benzovinflumizone + azoxystrobin + propiconazole), Ultra Flourish TM (Metalfrost), Vanguard TM WG (cyprodinil), Vivando TM (metrofenone), ZeroTol (hydrogen peroxide), Zampro TM 525SC (ametotradin + dimethomorph), Ziram TM (76DF, Excel)(ziram), Zing! TM(zoxamide), but not limited thereto.

[0080] Examples of bacteria include Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, Burkholderia, Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Serratia, Alcaligenes, Arthrobacter, Delftia acidovorans (e.g., Lallemand's Lalfix Proyield TM Liquid soybean inoculants), but not limited thereto. Additional examples can be found in patent US9333227 (which describes genetically engineered microbial cells that can produce bacteriocins) and US Patents No. 9868675 and No. 10053392 (which describe a group of bacterial strains that are used to improve the availability of soil phosphorus and other macronutrients to plants).

[0081] Examples of biological peptides include thuringin 17 (see PCT Patent Publication WO 2008 / 138129), bacteriocin 20 (a peptide produced by Bacillus thuringiensis), colicin, microcin, pyocyanin, carocin S1, carotovoricin, glycinecin, putidacin, ipomicin, Michiganin A, surfactin, iturin and fengycin, but are not limited thereto.

[0082] Examples of nitrogen fixers include blue-green algae (cyanobacteria (e.g., Oscillatoria, Gloeocapsa, Lyngbya, Plectonema), lichens, free-living soil bacteria, Azotobacter, Anabaena, Nostoc, Beijerinckia, Clostridium, Rhizobium, Bradyrhizobium elkanii, Azospirillum, Chlorobium, Chromatium, Azomonas, Derxia, Rhodospirillum, Desulfovibro, Rivularia, Calothrix, Pullularia, but are not limited thereto.

[0083] The nature of expectations

[0084] The seed coating composition according to the invention is preferably stable. Stable means at least that the biopolymer (e.g., fibers, spheroids) and / or any other components of the composition do not settle to the bottom. In embodiments, the insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer remains in suspension for at least 1 week or at least 1 month or at least 6 months or at least 12 months or at least 18 months or at least two years or at least three years or longer.

[0085] Seed coating compositions according to the present invention can be formulated to have a desired viscosity (e.g., the viscosity of a so-called paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel or emulsion in general). In embodiments, the viscosity of the composition / suspension can be changed by changing the high shear conditions and / or mechanical energy to which the biopolymer is subjected. In embodiments, a stable uniform suspension has a viscosity of about 25 mPa to about 85000 mPa. Table 1 below provides non-limiting examples of the desired viscosity of compositions / suspensions according to the present invention.

[0086] Table 1 : Example of required viscosity

[0087] Required viscosity Exemplary viscosity (mPa·s) Paste About 40,000 to about 200,000 or more ointment About 20,000 to about 50,000 Cream About 1500 to about 30000 lotion About 800 to about 4000 gel About 1,000 to about 40,000 Lotion About 20 to about 2000

[0088] In embodiments, the viscosity of the seed coating composition according to the present invention may be varied by selecting additional ingredients (eg, safeners, binders, waxes, stabilizers, humectants, colorants, bioactive agents, etc.) accordingly.

[0089] In addition to the biopolymer, the viscosity of the seed coating composition according to the present invention can also be changed according to the ratio or concentration of each compound entering the composition. In embodiments, the weight ratio of biopolymer: other components (e.g., safeners, binders, waxes, stabilizers, humectants, colorants, bioactive agents, etc.) is about 0.1:20 to about 10:20, or about 0.5:20 to about 3:20, or about 0.75:20, or about 1.0:20, 1.25:20, or about 1.5:20.

[0090] In embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises between about 0.01% w / w and 10% w / w biopolymer, or between 0.01% w / w and 5% w / w biopolymer, or between 0.01% w / w and 2% w / w biopolymer, or between 0.01% w / w and 1% w / w biopolymer. In embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises between about 0.01% w / w biopolymer, or between about 0.05% w / w biopolymer, or between about 0.1% w / w biopolymer, or between about 0.25% w / w biopolymer, or between about 0.5% w / w biopolymer, or between about 0.75% w / w biopolymer, or between about 1% w / w biopolymer, or between about 1.5% w / w biopolymer, or between about 2.5% w / w biopolymer, or between about 5% w / w biopolymer.

[0091] The agricultural composition according to the present invention can also be provided in dry form and formulated into powders, pellets, granules, films, sticks, etc. The dry form can be used for applications such as foliar spraying and / or for the production of formulations that are slow-released at the root or seed (e.g., granules that release biological activity to plants and / or granules that allow retention and release of moisture / water). The composition in dry form can be obtained by preparing a biopolymer composition as defined herein, or optionally by the following methods: (i) preparing a mixture containing active ingredients mixed into a biopolymer composition; (ii) drying the mixture to obtain a dry product; and optionally, forming a powder, pellets, granules, films and / or sticks with the dry product. For powders, the suspension composition can be spray-dried into a powder form. The powder can be compressed into pellets. The suspension can also be dried into large droplets to form pellets, or the suspension can be refined into granules.

[0092] Manufacturing method

[0093] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of making an agricultural composition as defined herein.

[0094] In one embodiment, obtaining an agricultural composition comprises: subjecting an insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer to mechanical energy in the presence of a polar solvent to obtain a stable homogeneous suspension of the insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer. The stable homogeneous suspension can be used as a seed coating composition and / or for general other agricultural uses, including formulations / compositions for other parts of plants.

[0095] In one embodiment, obtaining the agricultural composition comprises: mixing at least one bioactive agent into a stable homogenous aqueous solution comprising insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles. As described above, the bioactive agent can be selected from fungicides, insecticides, bacteria, biopeptides, nitrogen fixers and mixtures thereof.

[0096] In an embodiment, manufacturing the agricultural composition comprises: mechanically processing at least one bioactive agent with a biopolymer under high shear conditions and / or high mechanical energy to obtain a stable homogenous aqueous composition as defined herein, the composition comprising insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles and the bioactive agent dispersed therein. Preferably, any bacteria may be added after the biopolymer suspension is prepared.

[0097] In embodiments, making the agricultural composition comprises mixing an additive (eg, a bioactive agent) into a pre-made biopolymer suspension.

[0098] Agricultural uses and potential benefits

[0099] The composition of the present invention can be used in many applications in the agricultural field, for use as seed coating and / or for other uses on roots, leaves, fruits, etc.

[0100] In an embodiment, the agricultural composition according to the present invention consists of a seed coating composition, which can provide one or more of the following benefits compared to uncoated seeds: improved germination rate, increased water absorption or water absorption of seeds, reduced water loss from seeds, increased seedling emergence, increased root hair formation, allowing germination under conditions of reduced humidity (e.g., warm and / or dry conditions where seeds have limited access to water), etc.

[0101] In embodiments, agricultural compositions according to the invention consist of compositions for plant leaves, roots, fruits, flowers, etc. For example, the compositions can be applied in solid (e.g., as a free-flowing powder), liquid, or viscous form (e.g., a spray) by any suitable means. Contemplated techniques include foliar spraying and root contact. The compositions can also be applied to various parts of the plant, or provided to the roots or seeds in the form of a slow-release formulation (e.g., beads, granules, or gel).

[0102] In embodiments, such compositions can provide benefits to plants, such as increasing the number of nodules, increasing nitrogen concentration and / or total nitrogen fixation. When applied as a foliar spray, the composition can increase the photosynthesis rate, leaf greenness and leaf area of ​​the leaves. When applied to the roots, it can increase the photosynthesis rate, increase leaf greenness, increase leaf area and / or increase plant dry matter accumulation.

[0103] The agricultural compositions of the invention and the methods of the invention can be used anywhere plants grow, for example in a greenhouse, in the field or under laboratory conditions. The compositions can be used for plants grown at temperatures above 30°C, at which nitrogen-fixing rhizobacteria are generally most active, or for plants grown at low temperatures, for example at an average daily root zone temperature below 28°C, 26°C, 24°C, 22°C, 20°C, 18°C, 16°C, 14°C, 12°C or 10°C.

[0104] The agricultural compositions and methods of the present invention are not limited to any particular plant or plant type. Exemplary plants in which the methods of the present invention can be practiced include, but are not limited to, legumes (e.g., soybeans, peanuts, dry beans (e.g., peas and lentils), beans), forage crops (e.g., alfalfa and clover), plants of lesser agricultural importance (e.g., lupines, sainfoin, clover, and even some small tree species), Solanaceae (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, eggplants), Cucurbitaceae (cucumbers, pumpkins, melons), corn, horticultural species (e.g., peaches, apples, plums, pears, mangoes), forestry species (e.g., spruce, pine, fir, maple, oak, poplar), and small grains such as wheat, barley, oats, and canola.

[0105] In embodiments, for seed coating applications, the seeds are selected from corn, wheat, soybean, barley, oats, rapeseed, sunflower, alfalfa, edible beans, sorghum, nightshade, squash, cucumber, melon, turf, forage, and peas.

[0106] Thus, a particular aspect of the invention relates to a method for seed coating. In one embodiment, the method comprises applying a composition as defined herein to the seed.

[0107] Another related aspect relates to a method of improving seed germination during planting. In one embodiment, the method comprises coating the seeds with a coating composition as defined herein.

[0108] Another related aspect relates to a method for delivering one or more bioactive ingredients to a plant. In one embodiment, the method comprises applying a coating composition to a seed, the coating composition comprising at least one bioactive ingredient stably dispersed in a biopolymer composition as described herein. In another embodiment, the method comprises applying a composition to a root, tuber, leaf, petal, seed, and / or fruit, etc., the composition comprising at least one bioactive ingredient stably dispersed in a biopolymer composition as described herein.

[0109] The composition of the present invention can also be used to make fertilizers, can also be used as fertilizers themselves, as or for conditioners, as or for plant disease control agents, as or for anti-transpiration agents, as or for ripening retardants, as or for fruit coatings, etc.

[0110] Those skilled in the art may recognize or be able to determine many equivalents to the specific procedures, embodiments, claims and examples described herein using only routine experimentation. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of the present invention and are covered by the appended claims. The present invention is further illustrated by the following examples, which should not be construed as further or specific limitations.

[0111] Example

[0112] Example 1: Seed coating

[0113] Experiments were conducted to assess the extent to which seed coatings according to the present invention can help retain moisture in seeds and improve germination under less wet conditions.

[0114] Seed coating

[0115] Biopolymer suspensions containing chitosan, cellulose and chitin were prepared and used for seed coating. Briefly, coated lentil seeds were prepared by adding 10 g of lentil to a 90 mL polypropylene container with 3 to 3.5 g of any biopolymer suspension (this was in excess). Each chitosan, chitosan or cellulose suspension was passed through a 1.5 L Supermill Plus with 1.4 to 1.7 mm zirconium oxide beads. TM Prepared in 20 L batch grinding, where typical grinding conditions were a rotation speed of 2400 FPM (feet per minute) and a pump flow of 7.3 GPH (gallons per hour), using 982 mL of 1.4 to 1.7 mm zirconium oxide beads, where 20 liters of slurry were processed at 5% solids content (1.05:20).

[0116] The coating was dispensed by manually rotating the vibrating container. Visual inspection showed that the seeds were completely coated with the biopolymer suspension within 2 minutes of shaking and rotating. The coated seeds were spread on silica gel sheets for drying. After drying, the coated seeds were marked as coated. The dry coating on 10 g of seeds was approximately 0.12 g of biopolymer.

[0117] Comparison of water absorption

[0118] 4 g of each coated and uncoated lentil seeds were added to 15 g of water and left to stand for 30 minutes to absorb water. After 30 minutes, the seeds were sieved to separate them from the water. The wet seeds were then placed on a paper towel and gently patted dry to remove the surface water.

[0119] The seeds were then weighed to measure the amount of water absorbed. The weight of the seed batches was recorded over time to determine moisture loss. The relative humidity of the environment was 35%.

[0120] After the first 30 minutes, the uncoated seeds retained about 1.27 g of water, while the coated seeds retained about 2.20 g of water.

[0121] Water loss was measured over time by weighing the seeds in petri dishes. The increased water uptake by the coated seeds prolonged water retention compared to uncoated seeds. Figure 1 As shown, the additional water uptake by the coated seeds (CS03 and CS03) delayed drying by about 6 hours, with the weight of the coated seeds being consistent with the initial weight of the uncoated seeds (US01 and US02).

[0122] Embodiment 2: Plant emergence with chitosan and bacteriocin 20

[0123] Experiments were conducted to demonstrate the positive effects of chitosan seed coating on soybean seedling emergence and growth in soil. At 72 hours, seeds coated with a composition comprising a combination of chitosan and bacteriocin 20 showed an increase in germination rate (73%) compared to uncoated (62%) and bacteriocin 20-only coated seeds (43%).

[0124] Embodiment 3: Seed coatings combining chitosan and bioactive agents

[0125] Experiments were conducted to investigate the relationship between chitosan and bioactive agents (i.e. microbial peptides with plant biostimulant activity, such as bacteriocin 20 (ABIO TM ))) on the water uptake and germination of soybean seeds. Significant results were observed on seed germination and root hair formation.

[0126] Water absorption

[0127] If available Figure 2It was observed that at a relative humidity level of 40%, after 3 days, none of the uncoated seeds germinated, the chitosan-coated seeds had a germination rate of about 8%, and the chitosan- and bacteriocin-20-coated seeds had a germination rate of about 13%. After 5 days, the germination rate of the uncoated seeds was about 20%, while the germination rate of the chitosan-coated seeds was close to 50%. The chitosan- and bacteriocin-20-coated seeds were close to 38%. At a relative humidity level of 70%, after 3 days, about 3% of the uncoated seeds germinated, the chitosan-coated seeds had a germination rate of about 22%, and the chitosan- and bacteriocin-20-coated seeds had a germination rate of about 23%. After 4 days, the germination rate of the uncoated seeds was about 76%, while the chitosan-coated seeds had a germination rate of close to 91%, and the chitosan- and bacteriocin-20-coated seeds had a germination rate of about 91%. These results demonstrate that coating soybean seeds with chitosan (with or without a bioactive agent such as bacteriocin 20) enhances soybean seed germination and seedling emergence under standard and water stress conditions.

[0128] Root hair formation

[0129] like Figure 3 As shown, coating soybean seeds with chitosan (with or without bacteriocin 20) also significantly promoted root hair growth. In short, root growth under different relative humidity levels was compared. The relative humidity germination conditions of uncoated soybeans, chitosan-coated soybeans and chitosan+bacteriocin 20-coated soybeans were compared. At 100% relative humidity, all types had good root growth, which was visually similar. At 70% relative humidity, uncoated seeds had very little secondary root growth, chitosan-coated seeds had significant root growth, similar to the root growth at 100% relative humidity, and chitosan and bacteriocin 20-coated seeds had less root growth than chitosan alone (but more root growth than uncoated). At 40% relative humidity, uncoated seeds had shorter root growth. Chitosan-coated seeds had taproots of similar length and longer secondary roots. Finally, chitosan and bacteriocin 20-coated seeds had much longer roots at this stage. These results demonstrate that coating soybean seeds with chitosan, with or without bioactive agents including biopeptides such as bacteriocin 20, enhances root hair formation.

[0130] ***

[0131] Headings are included herein for reference and to help locate certain sections. These headings are not intended to limit the scope of the concepts described therein, and these concepts may have applicability throughout other parts of the specification. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0132] The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include corresponding plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a biopolymer" includes one or more such biopolymers, and reference to "a method" includes reference to equivalent steps and methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art, which steps and methods may be modified or substituted for the methods described herein.

[0133] Unless otherwise stated, all numerical values ​​of the amount of the expression composition, reaction conditions, concentration, property, etc. used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. At least, each numerical parameter should be interpreted at least according to the reported significant digits and using conventional rounding techniques. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the numerical parameters described in this specification and the appended claims are approximate values, which may change according to the properties sought to be obtained. Although the wide range of numerical ranges and parameters stating the embodiments are approximate values, the numerical values ​​described in the specific examples are reported as accurately as possible. However, any numerical value inherently contains certain errors caused by the changes in experiments, test measurements, statistical analysis, etc.

[0134] It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes thereto may be suggested to those skilled in the art, which are included within the scope of the present invention and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A seed coating composition comprising a biopolymer, wherein the composition comprises biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable homogeneous aqueous suspension.

2. The seed coating composition according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of a bioactive agent, a safener, a binder, a wax, a stabilizer, a humectant and a colorant.

3. The seed coating composition according to claim 2, wherein The bioactive agent is selected from the group consisting of fungicides, insecticides, bacteria, biological peptides, nitrogen fixers, low molecular weight biopolymers, and oligomers.

4. The seed composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The seed coating composition is formulated as a paste, ointment, cream, lotion, gel or emulsion.

5. The seed coating composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The composition comprises a homogenous aqueous suspension of insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles.

6. The seed coating composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The stable homogeneous aqueous suspension comprises insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent.

7. The seed coating composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The biopolymer consists of a stable homogeneous aqueous suspension comprising insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles.

8. The seed coating composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The biopolymer is selected from the group consisting of chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, fibroin, keratin, wool, alginic acid and mixtures thereof.

9. The seed coating composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The biopolymer is selected from gelatin, pectin, starch, pullulan, agarose, alginic acid, alginate, hyaluronic acid, RNA, DNA, xanthan gum, guar gum, latex, polymannos, suberin, keratin, horny carbon and mixtures thereof.

10. A seed coated with a seed coating composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The seed according to claim 10, wherein The seeds are selected from the group consisting of corn, wheat, soybean, barley, oats, rapeseed, sunflower, alfalfa, edible beans, sorghum, nightshade, pumpkin, cucumber, melon, turf, forage grass and peas.

12. Use of a seed coating composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11 for providing at least one of the following benefits compared to uncoated seeds: improved germination rate, increased water absorption or water uptake by seeds, reduced water loss from seeds, increased seedling emergence, increased root hair formation, enabling germination under conditions of reduced humidity, increased number of nodules, increased nitrogen concentration and / or total nitrogen fixation.

13. A method of seed coating, which comprises applying a seed coating composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9 to seeds.

14. A method for improving seed germination during planting, the method comprising coating the seeds with a seed coating composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9.

15. A method for improving plant emergence, the method comprising coating seeds to be planted with a coating composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9.

16. A method of coating seeds with a biologically active ingredient, the method comprising applying to the seeds a seed coating composition comprising at least one biologically active ingredient stably dispersed in a biopolymer composition.

17. A composition for use in agriculture comprising biopolymer molecules that have been mechanically processed into a stable homogeneous aqueous suspension, wherein the stable homogeneous aqueous suspension comprises insoluble and / or semi-soluble biopolymer particles stably dispersed in a polar solvent.

18. The composition according to claim 17, wherein The composition is formulated for application to at least one of plant foliage, seeds, roots, fruits and flowers.

19. The composition according to claim 17 or 18, wherein The compositions include seed coatings, seed pellets, fertilizers, powders, root drops and / or foliar sprays.

20. The composition according to any one of claims 17 to 19, further comprising at least one of a bioactive agent, a safener, a binder, a wax, a stabilizer, a humectant and a colorant.

21. The composition according to claim 20, wherein The bioactive agent is selected from the group consisting of fungicides, insecticides, bacteria, biological peptides, nitrogen fixers, low molecular weight biopolymers, and oligomers.

22. A composition according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein The biopolymer is selected from the group consisting of chitin, chitosan, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, amylose, actin, fibrin, collagen, silk, fibroin, keratin, wool, alginic acid and mixtures thereof.

23. A composition according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein The biopolymer is selected from gelatin, pectin, starch, pullulan, agarose, alginic acid, alginate, hyaluronic acid, RNA, DNA, xanthan gum, guar gum, latex, polymannos, suberin, keratin, horny carbon and mixtures thereof.

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